Most individuals with serious weight issues have investigated prescription weight loss drugs at one point or another. While prescription weight loss drugs may be a viable option for some, they are certainly not a replacement for healthy eating and regular exercise. Those who use prescription weight loss drugs should understand that they are not an easy fix and must be coupled with a healthy lifestyle.
The team at Total HealthcareMD receives many questions on prescription weight loss drugs and whether or not they are a practical choice. For more information on this popular yet confusing topic, read on.
Who Can Benefit from Prescription Weight Loss Drugs?
Prescription weight loss drugs are certainly not for everyone. They are recommended for individuals who suffer from weight-related health problems and are unable to lose weight through consistent diet and exercise. Individuals who are interested in losing weight solely for cosmetic purpose should not take these drugs.
Doctors may prescribe weight-loss drugs for those who have a body mass index that is greater than 30 or those who have a body mass index that is greater than 27 with a serious weight-related health issue such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Prior to prescribing a medication, a doctor will consider potential side effects as well as how the drug may interact with other medications an individual is taking.
Are Prescription Weight Loss Drugs Effective?
According to the Mayo Clinic, weight-loss drugs can generate an average weight loss of 5 to 10 percent of total body weight within a year when paired with a healthy diet and routine exercise. Although the drugs are partially responsible for this weight loss, it would not be possible without an individual’s commitment to low-calorie foods and regular workouts.
Some may argue that losing 5 to 10 percent of total body weight is not a sufficient amount. However, this reduction in weight can help individuals improve their overall health by decreasing blood pressure, glucose levels, and lipid levels, and increasing insulin sensitivity. Those who choose to stop taking these medications have a good chance of regaining the majority or all of the weight that they’ve lost.
If you’re wondering whether or not prescription weight loss drugs are right for you, take a trip to Total HealthcareMD today. We’ll dive deeper into your specific situation and help you implement a weight loss plan that works best for your particular body type and health needs.